Which muscle are the leg EMG electrodes placed on?

The anterior tibialis muscle is typically chosen for the placement of EMG electrodes in the leg during sleep studies. This muscle is located along the front of the lower leg and is responsible for dorsiflexion of the foot, which is the action of raising the foot upwards towards the shin.

Using the anterior tibialis for EMG monitoring provides valuable information about muscle activity during sleep, especially in assessing potential movement disorders such as periodic limb movement disorder. This muscle's position makes it accessible and allows for clear readings that reflect the movement or absence of movement during sleep.

The posterior tibialis, while also involved in lower leg function, is less suitable for this purpose as it is located deeper in the leg and may not provide as clear or reliable readings as the anterior tibialis. The sub mentalis and mentalis muscles are more relevant to facial movement and are not typically involved in the assessment of leg movements during sleep, making them unsuitable choices for electrode placement in this context.